Alexithymia in COPD patients

Background: Alexithymia is a psychological trait characterized by difficulty in perceiving and expressing emotions and body sensations. It is one of psychological predictors of non-adherence to treatment. Few studies have investigated the prevalence of alexithymia in COPD patients and the influence of alexithymia in dyspnea perception. Aim: To analyze the prevalence of alexithymia in patients with COPD exacerbation. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in COPD patients with moderate-severe COPD exacerbation and compared to age- and sex-matched control healthy group (n=47). Alexithymia were assessed by Serbian Translation of the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20-SRB). The spirometry was performed prior to discharge according to the ATS/ERS standardization guideline using a MasterScope spirometer (CareFusion). Results: The mean TAS-20 score was 51.9±15.6 in 40 pts (47.5% men; mean age 63.0±11.8 yrs) and 36.9±11.2 in control group. TAS score ³61 (alexithymia) was found in 8 (20.0%) patients, scores of 52 to 60 (possible alexithymia) in 9 patients (22.5%) and scores £ 51 in 23 patients (57.5%).There were no significant correlation between TAS score and patient9s age and between FEV1(%pred) and TAS score (p>0.05). There was no significant differences between TAS score and patient9s gender, and between TAS score and with family status (p>0.05). The difference in TAS score between COPD patients and control group was significant (p=0.032). Discussion: Our results suggest the high prevalence of alexithymia in patients with COPD exacerbation. Alexithymia should be routinely assessed in COPD patients because it can be one of the reasons for non-adherence.